offers few opportunities for new leaders to emerge, build their own independent political base, and legitimately vie for power.

That closed and controlled system is now teetering after tens of thousands of Russians marched in the streets of Russian cities in December to reject Mr. Putin's penchant for bureaucratic manipulation, media control, and vote-rigging.

Fresh leaders are emerging without the Kremlin's approval and finding their voices. The following are seven to watch in coming months.